Aberdeen Bespoke Counselling
Online Counselling
Sometimes travel and time restrictions or a busy lifestyle can mean that it is difficult to make face-to-face counselling sessions. Anxiety around leaving the house, a job which invovles a great deal of travel or feeling more comfortable in the privacy of your own home, are just a few common reasons for choosing online therapy. Research now shows that online can be just as effective as face to face therapy.
Who is this for?
Whilst some people may initially be cautious about seeking therapy online, studies show that in most cases client outcomes, symptom improvement and satisfaction are the same for online therapy compared to face to face.
Online counselling is a form of therapy that is conducted over the internet. As long as you have a trustworthy wifi connection, laptop/iPad or smart phone with a camera and sound, and ideally an email account to receive the invite link you will be good to go. Online counselling can be an effective way for people to receive help for a whole variety of mental health issues, struggles or just some of life’s challenges.
It can also be a more convenient way for people who have difficulty with transportation, live out with the city centre, commute to different cities, have any physical limitations, experience high levels of anxiety or panic attacks or even people who just lead incredibly busy lives, to receive help.
“Catherine makes you feel very welcome, comfortable, and calm. Previously, I would have been scared to admit or discuss my feelings, but she taught me how to deal with them and manage my thoughts. Catherine also provided me with useful tools, techniques and podcasts that helped me throughout my process.”
What can you expect?
Aberdeen based trained Person Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist who works with adults over the age of 16.
I can help with a wide range of difficulties such as depression, general anxiety disorder, social anxiety, loneliness, suicidal thoughts, stress, work-related stress, self-harm, low self-esteem / self-confidence, emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, trauma, childhood emotional neglect, burnout, bereavement, bullying, individual relationship difficulties, family issues. I am particularly passionate around issues relating to neurodiversity such as ADHD or Autism and I am experienced in working with those who are currently facing or recovering from Narcissistic abuse or any form of gas lighting. I deeply understand the importance of slowly building your confidence and regaining a sense of identity after having experienced this type of abuse.
I am fortunate to have worked in a generalist counselling capacity and have experienced a wide range of client issues. I have always felt it a privilege that clients share their lives and experiences with me and therefore fully understand the need and importance of confidentiality with each and every client.
“I have got more comfortable in the sessions with time, I like how you challenge me, and like to be continuously thinking about things. I like the dynamic we have. I open up more and talk about my feelings. The sessions have given me the courage to make changes in my life, and I’ve made these changes because of our sessions.”
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Online counselling is carried out through the use of internet based software or a messaging app.
Online counselling offers many advantages over face to face counselling such as no travel complications, travel costs, weather interruptions, difficulties leaving home, and a higher level of anonymity. Also, for those in rural areas, or commute between cities, or travel regularly – the sessions can still be easily accessible.
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As mentioned above the location is of your choosing. Ideally it is at home or any space with privacy, good reception and reassurance you will not be disturbed. However, life can be complex and throw us a curve ball every now and then, so a session with a client in their car or in their garden has also taken place!
Online sessions will be run via Google Meet (or alternatively Whats App), therefore you will require a computer, laptop, iPad or smart-phone with a camera and sound. A strong and dependable internet connection is very important (ideally no Netflix at the same time!). If you are in anyway concerned about technology please don’t be. I can provide written or video instructions for the use of Google Meet and I will arrange the setting up of meetings.
For a quick tutorial on how to accept a Google Meet invite just click on this link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4jAvaX73-U
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For sessions which take place on Google Meet, you will be sent a link 24hrs prior to your online appointment. You can join the meeting from any modern browser, computer/laptop, or mobile app. There's no additional software to install. You can actually join a Google Meet meeting without an account however you do need to be on the web.
Or if you opted for Whatsapp, you will be sent a Whatsapp message again 24hrs prior to your online appointment confirming the date and time. I will always call you at the designated time, so just be ready and have your phone in a place which enables me to see your head and shoulders comfortably. And of course ensure you are sitting comfortably too!
Handy tip – search ‘Gooseneck phone holder’ in amazon or any IT shop – great for phone video sessions!
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Practically:
It is also vital that you have a private space where you will not be interrupted for the duration of our 50 minute counselling session. It may be that you are in a house with others and the use of headphones may help to further keep the session confidentially safe for you. Also handy tip – remember to ensure your battery of your phone or laptop/ipad has been fully charged or can be charged whilst in session!
Personally:
Belief in the counselling process and a little patience will also be beneficial, the mind takes time to recover just like the body! Making sure you have the time for counselling at this point in your life is also worth considering. Time for not just the appointments but time to reflect on them, working through things and maybe even a little homework inbetween sessions (dont worry this is optional!) And finally with the above in mind, for it to work, all I ask is that you have an open mind, are open to personal growth and to learning about yourself!
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Some benefits might be…
Convenience – it may be beneficial for those with busy work or travel schedules. Your session can be carried out in the comfort or your own home.
Accessibility for those with physical limitations – if you are unable to leave your home for various reasons, such as physical or mental illness, you may find online therapy a useful alternative to traditional face to face settings.
Regularity - more consistent therapy - telephone therapy decreases absences due to poor weather conditions or sickness, allowing clients to participate in therapy on a more regular basis.
Confidentiality – there is no likelihood that you may be seen entering the counsellors practice.
Some other things to consider…
Non-verbal communication – although we are seeing each other on the computer, it is thought there may be some subtle signs such as body language, facial expressions, tone of voice or even speed of breathing could be missed on occasion. However, attending an online and telephone counselling course means the likelihood of this may be reduced and requires me to listen more deeply and look harder for non-verbal signs.
Security – may also be a concern in regard to confidentiality and often clients ask is it safe? I can hopefully reassure you that Whatsapp and Google Meet offer end-to-end encryption as standard. Please however ensure your security and software as are up to date as possible and this may reduce the risk of any security issues.
Some questions to consider…
Is the timing right for you just now?
Can you commit to weekly sessions?
Can you afford the sessions and for how long?
Get in touch for an introductory call.
If you are unsure of which method is best for you, please don’t worry – we can discuss this in our free of charge introductory call and go from there.